Seared Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/4 pounds scallops
600 grams
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
divided
- 4-5 large garlic cloves
minced, or 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Directions
- 1
If scallops are frozen, thaw in cold water. Remove the side muscle from the scallops if attached. Thoroughly pat dry with paper towels.
- 2
Heat olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot and sizzling. Add the scallops in a single layer without over crowding the pan (work in batches if needed).
- 3
Season with salt and pepper to taste and fry for 2-3 minutes on one side (until a golden crust forms underneath), then flip and fry again for 2 minutes until crisp, lightly browned and cooked through (opaque). Remove from skillet and transfer to a plate.
- 4
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same pan, scraping up any browned bits left over from the scallops. Add in the garlic and cook until fragrant (1 minute).
- 5
Pour in wine (or broth) and bring to a simmer for 2 minutes or until wine reduces by about half. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and lemon juice.
- 6
Remove pan (skillet) from the heat; add the scallops back into the pan to warm through slightly and garnish with parsley.
- 7
Serve over rice, pasta, garlic bread or steamed vegetables (cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini noodles).
Seared Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 44 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a restaurant-quality meal that comes together faster than takeout? These Seared Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are your answer, delivering elegant flavors and an unforgettable experience in just 10 minutes from start to finish. It’s the ultimate quick gourmet option for any night of the week.
This recipe truly shines by celebrating the natural sweetness of scallops with a vibrant, aromatic sauce. The magic lies in the classic combination of butter, bright lemon, and pungent garlic, which creates a harmonious balance that perfectly complements the delicate seafood. This approach ensures each scallop is enveloped in a rich yet zesty glaze, making every bite a delightful experience without any complex techniques. It’s about letting high-quality ingredients speak for themselves.
Prepare for perfectly succulent scallops that are incredibly tender and juicy, nestled in a shimmering, golden sauce. The fragrant, generous amount of minced garlic and fresh, vibrant parsley infuse the dish with an irresistible aroma and depth of flavor. The bright notes from the lemon juice provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the butter, ensuring a perfectly balanced and clean finish on the palate. This dish offers a luxurious feel without the heavy sensation, making it a surprisingly light and deeply satisfying meal or an impressive appetizer.
You have plenty of flexibility to customize this dish to your taste. If dry white wine isn't available, broth makes an excellent substitute for the sauce base, ensuring a savory and robust flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount of minced garlic to your liking, or if you enjoy a hint of heat, a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes would be a welcome addition. For extra freshness, a few capers or a swirl of green onion would also be delightful.
These exquisite scallops are wonderfully versatile. Serve them simply on their own as an elegant appetizer, or pair them with a light pasta, fluffy rice, or some warm crusty bread to savor every drop of the luxurious lemon garlic butter sauce. They’re perfect for a romantic dinner or a quick, impressive meal for guests.